Cornell University president vows 'rigorous' probe in gangrape case, shares new video: 'My heart aches'

Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff has vowed to conduct a rigorous investigation into a 2024 gang rape allegation, amid criticism of the university's handling of the case. In a video message, Kotlikoff expressed his distress over the incident, saying "my heart aches when I think of what she experienced." He acknowledged that the university must "do better" and promised greater transparency in the investigation.

The university is facing a civil lawsuit filed by the alleged victim, known as Jane Doe, who claims she was given drugs and alcohol and assaulted by several members of the Chi Phi fraternity. According to the South China Morning Post, lawyers for at least three of the accused have denied criminal wrongdoing. Kotlikoff announced that the university's Board of Trustees will conduct an independent review of the case by an outside law firm.

Kotlikoff also pledged to examine the role of fraternities and sororities on campus, seeking input from students, alumni, and others on how to preserve the positive aspects of Greek life while strengthening individual accountability and transparency. The university aims to prevent similar situations in the future and promote a culture of responsibility and safety.

Brief written by urgent.news from Live Mint, South China Morning Post, NDTV, Investing.com — 4 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.